Kimberley Zara Wilson said: "It's brilliant that Sunderland is getting another SEN (special educational needs) school, Sunningdale has a huge waiting list so this should get the kids into the right educational setting sooner!

"As an ex SHS pupil I'm happy the school will be used for education once more."

Rebecca Frost said: "Definitely! My daughter is lucky enough to have gotten a place at Sunningdale but I'm aware of meaning needing a place in specialist school and are having to attend mainstream due to lack of places."

Paula Cullen was one of the many parents left devastated when Sunderland High School made its shock closure announcement, which she said had "ripped" the school away from her children overnight.

"It is a stunning educational setting. That's why I chose this school for my children," she said.

"However I am very pleased that the building will be used for educational purposes & not housing. Good luck to them

Clare Berry said: "Pleased it's going to be referral by local authority,at least you know the children that need a place the most will get one."

Zoe Marshall Taylor said: "Definitely the best outcome but still sad it's gone."

Alexandra Birrell said: "I'm going to email them tomorrow and see if they can send me some information on the roles they're recruiting for."